Long before children, like everyone does, I imagined the mother I would become. Long story short, motherhood has looked nothing like I had planned out in my head. I think one of the most painful realizations was that I was not thriving as a stay at home mom. I know there are moms out there who thrive at home…I just am not one of them.
The transition started with my kids going into daycare for a few hours a day a couple of days a week. During this time, I worked on my business, the Idaho Falls Moms blog, and explored how I could spend my time alone without feeling guilty. A few months later, our budget was getting a bit tight and I decided to take on a seasonal job just to see how it was to go back to work.
While I am thankful for the opportunity (and the pay), going from being a SAHM of 3 years to a hectic holiday seasonal job was like jumping into a cold pool after being in a hot tub. I mean, the hot tub was getting uncomfortable and while the shock was also refreshing in a way, it was also just that: a shock. Thankfully the season ended, I got two nice paychecks, and I learned not to work seasonal ever again.
It took a couple of weeks, but I came across a job I was interested in; I was hired for a different position in the same business and it is better than I could have ever imagined. I’m really glad I stuck to my values and waited for a job that was truly a good fit.
If you’re thinking of getting back into work as a mom, here are a few considerations from someone that has been there:
Consider your values and your expectations.
What really matters to you about getting a new job? Sometimes it is strictly financial, which is totally fine. Maybe it’s to have social interaction, to make an impact on the community, or to help those in need. Can you think of some jobs that may offer what you value and need?
What is non-negotiable?
Does it have to meet your family’s schedule? Do you want work that you can do at home? Is location or pay a main factor? Do you need a certain level of fulfillment in the work?
Be creative in your search and ask those around you for ideas.
Scroll through job listings and be open to reading every listing that sticks out to you, not just the ones that sound the most likely. I got the idea to explore the field because a friend of mine told me that she had success in it. I would have never thought of looking into it if it weren’t for that conversation! I also had a lot of conversations about jobs that just really didn’t align with me, but even those conversations helped me decide what I did NOT want to do.
Never, ever think you have less to offer because you’ve been a stay at home mom for xyz years or even simply because you’re a mom.
Recognize the immense work and skill that motherhood requires. You might need some sharpening, but most of the skills any job could require of you are on point. It can also get hard when you have to take off work if the kids are sick and you can’t get a babysitter. Your kids come first. Any business worthy of having you grace their office will understand that being a mom makes you more of an asset, not less of one.
One last thought…I hope you know this: I promise the kids will be OK. Whether they are in daycare or in school, they will be OK. You will know if it really isn’t good for you, for them, for your whole family’s situation. Worst case scenario: you try a job, it doesn’t work out, and you find another one to try. You know what works best. I hope you have all the support you need. If not, I know you’re still rocking it. Good job, mama!
